Archiprix International 2001
HafenCity Universität Hamburg, Department für Architektur - Hamburg, Germany
Andreas Dieg
Jochen Danzer
Tutors: Prof. Asmus Werner, Hamburg Rainer Bullhorst
The proposed International Criminal Court is a permanent legal tribunal with global jurisdiction to try individuals for gross breaches of international humanitarian law. Unlike the International Court of Justice, whose contentious jurisdiction is restricted to states, it will have the capacity to indict individuals; and unlike the Rwandan and Yugoslavian War Crimes Tribunals, its jurisdiction will not be chronologically or geographically limited. Hence, for the first time, there is the prospect of creating a positive global obligation for individuals to respect the rule of law. The position of the court above the sovereignty of individual states presents a new dimension in international relations and extends international jurisdiction by criminal law. This societal progress challenges architecture to research and produce stimulating and timely suggestions, in order to make their modest contribution, instead of remaining powerless in the face of requirements that are demanded of it.